A Day in Chinatown with Author Christine Wong (@conscious_cooking)
Welcome to a new mini series “A Day in Chinatown with…” where our favorite New Yorkers, part-time New Yorkers and/or New York fanatics share with us their favorite Chinatown spots. There is so much to explore and love about Chinatown; every corner of the neighborhood has its gems.
Today, we’re featuring Christine Wong, author of “The Plantiful Plate” cookbook, eco-conscious cook and freelance food stylist / content creator. You may know her on Instagram as @conscious_cooking where she takes her followers on her journey of plastic free living and vegan cooking. Christine is currently working on a second project celebrating her Hong Kong heritage. She loves being a part of the Chinatown community and discovering more about the small businesses that make this neighborhood so vibrant.
HEALTHY BITES
Chinatown has no shortage of healthy and delicious food. Fat Choy is one of my favorites - "kind of Chinese, also vegan" with lots of delicious flavors and textures in every bite. Highlights were in the details like the homemade sesame bun for the Mushroom Sloppy; the delicate crispiness of the twice‑fried Salt & Pepper Cauliflower; the preserved vegetables with the beans and rice, and the light and creamy pandan dipping sauce with the satisfying Chocolate Black Sesame Donut. Loved everything!
Rawsome Treats has flawless treats that are entirely raw, vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly. The house-made almond milk made with freshly cracked young coconuts is also incredible!
If you love tofu, head over to Fong On. Having closed its doors for a few years, this family-run business which originally opened in 1933 makes the best house made tofu, silken tofu desserts, rice cakes, and soy milk. I love that I can get fresh non-GMO tofu that's also free from plastic packaging.
For lunch, When I’m craving handmade dim sum and classic Cantonese fare, Dim Sum Go Go is a restaurant that really feels like home. They also have a great selection of signature vegan/vegetarian dumplings
FRUITS & VEGGIES
When I’m done with a healthy lunch, I think about what to bring home for later, and that means shopping for some fresh produce in Chinatown’s many markets. I love the Bangkok Center Grocery on 104 Mosco Street. It’s a tiny shop on one of NYC's shortest streets, and is filled with essential Thai ingredients from fresh produce like makrut lime leaves, Thai eggplant, and galangal. It's my go-to spot for sticky rice and rice berry, and tamarind paste.
Then I head over to the Fruit Vendors on the corner of Mulberry and Canal. Dragonfruit, passionfruit, rambutans, papayas, and clementines, this outdoor fruit caravan offers tropical and seasonal favorites. They also have discounted fruits for items that are bruised, or need using up.
DECOR & GRAPHICS
Custom decoration always adds a nice touch when you’re celebrating the new year or hosting a party. G & P Printing is very efficient, timely and offers quality printing. As a graphic designer, it was great working with Andy, who was helpful and able to offer cost-effective solutions to print projects.
For more traditional items, I always go to Good Field Trading on Mott Street. This narrow stationery shop is my go-to for lucky red envelopes every year.
For living decorations, I go to Joy’s Flowerpot. This Thai-owned florist shop has a lovely selection of houseplants and planters. I particularly love the handmade pots with faces on them.
LOOKING GOOD
Kelly Hair Salon is a no frills hair salon with experienced hairdressers – Lisa has been cutting hair for 55 years! I've gotten so many compliments for my haircut, and it's $15 well spent.
